Washi Tape vs PET Tape: Which Lasts Longer in Journals
By SumLilThings - Home to the Lil' Misfits | Published: 2026-10-17
Category: Comparisons
Compare washi tape and PET tape for journaling: learn which holds up better over time, resists wear, and suits different planner styles.
Quick answer
PET tape generally lasts longer in journals because it is made from a durable polyester film that resists tearing, moisture, and yellowing. Washi tape, made from traditional Japanese paper, is more prone to wear and fading over time but offers a softer, more natural look that many journalers prefer.
Material and construction differences
Washi tape is made from natural fibers like mulberry bark, giving it a thin, slightly textured surface that tears easily by hand. It bonds well to paper but can lose adhesion or fray at the edges after repeated page flipping. PET tape uses a transparent polyester film with a strong adhesive layer, making it resistant to scuffs, moisture, and UV light. This construction helps PET tape maintain its appearance and stickiness even in journals that see daily use.
Transparency and layering
PET tape is fully transparent, so it blends into the page and lets underlying text or artwork show through clearly. This makes it ideal for layering over planner layouts or sealing notes without hiding them. Washi tape is opaque or semi-translucent at best, so it works better as a decorative accent rather than a functional overlay. If you need a tape that disappears visually, PET is the better choice.
Long-term wear in a journal
Over months of journaling, washi tape can develop curled edges, lose color intensity from light exposure, and become brittle if the paper dries out. PET tape stays flat, resists yellowing, and holds its color because the ink is printed on or beneath the film layer. For a journal that you plan to keep for years, PET tape offers more reliable longevity.
Trade-offs at a glance
- Durability: PET tape wins on tear resistance, moisture protection, and color retention over time. Washi tape is more fragile and may fade or peel after months of use. Choose PET for long-term journals, washi for short-term or decorative use.
- Aesthetic and feel: Washi tape has a soft, matte, paper-like texture that many find charming and authentic. PET tape looks glossy and modern, which can feel less organic in a hand-drawn journal. Washi suits vintage or natural styles; PET suits clean, minimalist layouts.
- Ease of repositioning: Washi tape can be lifted and restuck a few times without losing much stickiness. PET tape bonds more aggressively and may tear if you try to reposition it. Use washi when you want flexibility; commit to PET placement the first time.
Product facts that matter
- Enamel Tweezer - Lil' Dreamy Nohnoh (Curved Point): The Enamel Tweezer features a fine pointed tip for grabbing, peeling, placing, and poking tiny items, finished with hard gold enamel and sparkly glitter details. When working with delicate PET tape or repositioning washi strips, a precision tweezer helps avoid fingerprints and tears, making placement easier and cleaner.
- Seal Sticker - Scrub Bubbles Dolls - Transparent: Seal Sticker - Scrub Bubbles Dolls is printed on clear sticker paper and measures 75 x 150mm, featuring original hand-drawn artwork. Clear stickers offer a similar transparent effect to PET tape, so you can coordinate your journal decorations with matching transparent elements for a cohesive look.
Which tape fits your journal?
Best for
- Journalers who want a durable, transparent tape that resists wear over months or years
- Planner users who layer tape over text or calendar entries and need the writing to show through
Not for
- Anyone who prefers the soft, natural paper feel and matte finish of traditional washi tape
- Journalers who frequently reposition tape and need a forgiving adhesive
